Recovering the remains after 20 months under the weight of the cruise ship was “almost a miracle,” Italy’s civil protection chief, Franco Gabrielli, said. He also revealed they were “absolutely consistent” with the two missing people

Divers made the discovery close to the central section of the liner, from where many passengers had sought to escape in lifeboats. The bodies were lying just outside the hull on the sea bed. They still have not been brought ashore, and the process of running DNA identification tests is yet to begin.

Elio Vincenzi, Ms Trecarichi’s husband, has previously said he was optimistic she would be found. “I am filled with hope. I am still hoping to find my wife,” he said.

Mr Rebello was hailed a hero after helping passengers into lifeboats and giving away his life jacket.

Francesco Schettino, the captain, has been charged with manslaughter, causing a shipwreck and abandoning ship.